Several studies have shown a link between diet and hair loss. In short, diets that predispose to inflammation are much more likely to be associated with hair loss than healthier diets, with an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids and phytonutrients.
In addition to toxic cytokines, there are other inflammatory pathways that can be mediated via diet modification. A common problem involves over-production of pro-inflammatory hormone-like “messengers” (such as prostaglandin) E2) and under-production of anti-inflammatory “messengers” (such as prostaglandin E1 and E3).
The good news is that omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils help to suppress the formation of undesirable prostaglandin E2 and promote synthesis of beneficial prostaglandin E3. Gamma linolinic acid (GLA) induces production of the anti-inflammatory prostaglandin E1. What you eat can significantly affect whether you have more of the beneficial prostaglandins (E1 and E3) as opposed to the pro-inflammatory prostaglandin E2.
Since prostanglandin E2 is a culprit in inflammation, reducing food that are high in omega-6 fatty acids and increasing omega-3 rich food, such as salmon and other fish can be beneficial. Limiting foods that convert to arachidonic acid can help reduce inflammation. (Arachidonic acid is a precursor to both prostanglandin E2 and the pro-inflammatory cytokine leukotriene B(4)). Another dietary factor that can lead to high levels of arachidonic acid is the over-consumption of high-glycemic index carbohydrates that cause excess production of insulin.
Foods that contribute to chronic inflammation and hair loss are foods with the high-glycemic index (things that you digest quickly) like bottled fruit juices or rice cakes, food heavy in polyunsaturated fats or saturated fats, and foods high in arachidonic acid.